Saturday, February 07, 2004

A Few Words on W. Somerset Maugham

I just, well actually thirty or so minutes ago, completed reading Maugham’s The Razor’s Edge. I enjoyed it.  I had never read anything by Maugham until this volume, and the main reason I read this particular tome was because I was aware of his name and happened to come across this book while at the Salvation Army store.  I bought it for a dollar.  Good investment I’d say.  It still had its dust jacket, albeit being ragged, and carried Maugham’s copyright, 1944, along with a disclaimer which stated "This book has not been condensed.  Its bulk is less because government regulations prohibit use of heavier paper." The war you know.

I’ll spare you a full review, except to note that this work examines the mystical, which I acknowledge I have a streak of, but do not allow to give way to reason, which, as Maugham has a character state in this book ”...for its instrument (knowledge’s) is the most precious faculty of man, his reason." And to that statement I say Amen.

I now must choose my next read and will post it in the sidebar left tomorrow.  Tonight I dine with a small group whom I shall attempt to stir up by advocating remaining away from all polling places.  I’m certain it will be entertaining.

Posted by John Venlet on 02/07 at 02:32 PM
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